15 ways to start the New Year right!

Try these instant mood boosters, stat, to get a jump-start to a joyous year.

So, your work day was hellish, traffic this evening was in gridlock mode, and you came home to find your rugrats running amok. You’re dying for a pick-me-up, but the spa is not within easy reach. What you need is a happiness fix, stat!

Studies show that you can turn your grumps into glee in simple steps. Here are 15 quick tips and tricks that’ll make over your mood in a mo!

#1 Stop complainingInstead of pointing out what’s bothering you, channel that energy into fixing the problem. And if you can’t, let it go or look for the bright spots. Complaining not only introduces more negativity to your life, it also breaks down the positive spirit of people around you.

#2 Take a napFeeling tired may not mean you need another caffeine hit, while feeling ill doesn’t mean it’s time to double your meds. It could just mean you need some much-needed rest. So, get the hubs to babysit, turn off the alarm, put your mobile phone on silent and drift off to la-la-land.

#3 Be gratefulCount your blessings, one by one. It can be something as simple as catching the bus to work this morning, or having a loving hubby and happy kiddos to go home to every day. Being grateful reminds you of all the positive things in your life and will instantly make you feel better.

Being grateful reminds you of all the positive things in your life and will instantly make you feel better.

#4 Praise your childrenMany of us are guilty of this ― sometimes, when we feel bad about ourselves, we take it out on our offspring. It’s tempting, but avoid doing it because it’s not their fault you’re having a bad day. Lift them up instead ― tell them the things you wanted to hear from your parents when you were a child.

#5 Learn to say “no”Since you don’t want to come off as cold or rude, this may be hard to attempt, let alone master. But, it’s your prerogative to decline if the request is something you don’t feel comfortable and will leave you feeling resentful or if it’s too large a task for you to tackle. Use a nice phrase to turn someone down, such as, “Not right now” or “No, thank you”.

#6 Shake things upPutting on lipstick or a pretty pair of heels can immediately add some oomph to an otherwise blah day. If you’re always in dark hues, put on a boldly coloured blouse or dress instead, crown your morning coffee with some whipped cream or find a few jogging route. Do whatever works for you!

#7 Get movingStudies show that engaging in just 20 minutes of physical activity can produce enough endorphins and serotonin (natural mood enhancers) to keep you in high spirits that may last up to 12 hours. So, go for a run, join a Zumba class, or just crank up the music at home and have a dance party with your peewees to get those happy juices flowing.

Eight more ways to stay happy… coming right up!

#8 Turn on the tunesMusic has a powerful influence over your state of mind because it activates the part of your brain that is hardwired for pleasure. Put on your earphones, go to your favourite playlist on your mobile phone/computer and you’ll be happier in seconds.

#9 Phone your BFFBecause she/he is your walking, talking antidepressant. So, when it all gets too much, hit the speed dial on your mobile and trust your bestie to know just what to say or do to lift your spirits.

#10 Smile“… Though your heart is aching, smile even though its’ breaking… You’ll find that life is still worthwhile if you just smile,” the late crooner Nat King Cole famously sang. So, even if you don’t feel like it, just moving your facial muscles upwards can activate chemicals in your brain that will boost your mood in an instant.

#11 Go out of your way to be nice to someoneWe’re not asking you to be a doormat or a people pleaser, but going the extra mile for a friend or colleague ― even if you don’t really feel like it ― will make their day and help you feel good about yourself.

Feeling attractive and put-together on the outside will directly influence how you feel on the inside.

#12 Dine at a favourite restaurantNo, this isn’t a free pass to binge-eat, but rather to give yourself a much-needed treat at a place where you can count on great food and service. Order your favourite treats and tipples, then let your hubs settle the bill.

#13 Gussy upTreat yourself to a mani-pedi or try the latest ombre or balayage (highlighting technique) hair trend. Feeling attractive and put-together on the outside will directly influence how you feel on the inside. When you’re looking your best, you naturally feel better, too!

#14 Hang out with fur friendsStudies show that petting your pooches or kitties releases feel-good hormones such as serotonin, prolactin and oxytocin. Also, your faithful pet loves you unconditionally, so bask in that love and attention.

#15 Enjoy a chuckleIt’ll stimulate your mind and make you feel more optimistic. Most importantly, you can’t be laughing and feeling down at the same time, can you? So, watch a funny video clip on YouTube, read your favourite comic strip, or book tickets to the latest stand-up comedy act or a movie at the cinemas and you’re guaranteed to LOL.